(EAST AURORA, N.Y) -- Astronics Corporation (NASDAQ: ATRO), a leader in advanced, high performance lighting, electrical power and automated test systems for the global aerospace and defense industries, announced today that its subsidiary, Advanced Electronic Systems Corp. (AES), has signed contracts with two Asian commercial airlines totaling approximately $7.4 million for its EMPOWER(r) In-Seat Power Supply System (ISPS). The contracts include intelligent power control systems, in-seat power converters, cables, and ancillary equipment that allow passengers to connect their personal electronic devices (PED) - including laptop computers - to AC power outlets installed in the aircraft. The systems are to be installed on both retrofit and new wide-body Airbus and Boeing aircraft. Deliveries, which initially began earlier this year, are expected to continue through mid-2011.

Commercial airlines throughout Asia continue to invest in upgrading and expanding their fleets. With this expansion, the airline customers are fulfilling passenger demand for EMPOWER(r) systems which enable the passengers to use their laptop and other devices during flight.

"We expect opportunities from this sector to continue over the next few years as competition among the airlines intensifies." said Mark Peabody, AES Executive Vice President.

Astronics' patented, state-of-the art, highly efficient and reliable power supply systems are used to power personal electronic devices, laptop computers as well as aircraft in-flight entertainment systems. The systems have been sold to over 125 commercial transport and business jet customers, representing the largest installed base of in-seat power systems in the industry.